Bridgwater police are holding an open day on Saturday in the hope of reuniting lost bikes with their owners.

Anyone who has had a bike stolen is encouraged to attend the day at Bridgwater police station to see if their cycle is among the ones on show.

People planning to attend the event, which runs from 10am to 3pm, are asked to bring a photo driving licence or passport and proof of ownership - such as a registration or frame number, receipts or photographs.

PCSO Jemma Gould said: “If a member of the public has had their bike stolen and wishes to attend the open day, but they don't have registration documents, they should still come if they are able to describe the bike correctly, including any distinguishing features, such as specific scratches or damage, stickers or modifications.”

Insp Shane Carey said: “We are really keen to reunite as many bikes with their owners as possible.

“We want to remind cyclists to lock their bikes, not only when they are out but also when they are stored at home.

“We see insecure bikes around town all the time and even though some have been locked up they are still fairly vulnerable as people are using either cheap locks or the wrong kind of lock for their bike.”

Insp Carey has also urged bike owners to register their property on the Immobilise website.

Top tips for bike security are:

•Invest in a heavy duty lock, the best you can afford that is a suitable style for you bike – make sure it reflects the value of your bicycle. £40 or approximately 20% of the value of your bike is a good guide.

•Lock the bike up even when at home and preferably store it in a locked garage or shed out of view.

•Get your bike marked by police or your local cycle shop and registered on a website such as Bike Register.com – it makes it easier for police to trace the owners if it is stolen and can also act as a deterrent. Consider electronic tagging.

•Where possible lock your bike in a specific bike park or in the site of a CCTV camera. Try not to lock your bike in the same place on a regular basis to decrease the chance of it being stolen to order.

•Take out insurance on your bike. Be sure to cover for thefts away from home. Take a photo of your bike and write a clear description of it for your own records.

If you think you are being offered a stolen bike, ring the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

They never ask your name and they never trace your call. If you would like further advice on keeping your bikes safe, you can contact your local Safer Stronger Neighbourhood team on 0845 456 7000 or by logging on to www.avonandsomerset.police.uk

You could also speak to your local bike shop for advice and the latest updates on equipment or look at the following websites.